The Crafthouse Gastropub: A Brunch Worth Celebrating [REVIEW]

I must disclose that I have not been to many brunches, but the ones that I have, let's just say they were pretty legitimate. The Camino Real Hotel in El Paso, Hash House A Go-Go in Las Vegas...you get the idea.

I promised my fiancee we would go to brunch somewhere in Lubbock, and we decided on The Crafthouse Gastropub (3131 34th St.), who runs their brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

When we got there around noon (we were running a little behind that morning), there was a 30-minute wait -- a good sign. We were offered menus to look at and were able to get drinks at the bar while we waited. The drinks were immediately impressive; gorgeous, generous cocktails and creative twists on traditional brunch drinks.

I ordered a Pomelo, and my fiancee ordered a Bloody Mary. My Pomelo was dressed with red chili salt -- a really nice touch. Drew's Bloody Mary had house-made pickled veggies on it, and it was quite honestly one of the best Bloody Marys I've ever had. Over the course of our meal, we also tried the Mimosa (a bargain at $3) and a Brewed Mary (basically, a Bloody Beer, but with a scrumptious IPA). Every drink was delicious.

As good as the drinks were, the food was absolutely divine. We ordered Tiramisu Pancakes and Donut Stack, a donut breakfast "sandwich" of sorts with a house-made donut, sausage, egg and a chili pepper jam sauce. Both entrees were expertly prepared. The pancakes were rich, yet fluffy, and the donut stack was beyond decadent and a delightful blend of savory and sweet. We also had to order a side of the jalapeno cream cheese grits, which were hearty, creamy and total comfort food. Even if you don't normally like grits, you'll probably love Crafthouse's version.

The Crafthouse Gastropub prides itself on preparing food with the best ingredients, and having unique, modern entrees. The menu can and will change both seasonally and over time. Crafthouse is also open Tuesday-Saturday with an all day menu.